Security actions for everyone (SAFE)

Improving police–citizen relations in Liberia

This two-year project helped to improve relations between communities and the police and armed forces in Bong, Lofa, Montserrado and Nimba counties, and enhance citizens’ access to quality and responsive security services.

Our research highlighted negative public perceptions of the police in Liberia. This included issues of corruption, and the perception and reality of needing to pay bribes to obtain services and guarantee action from the police. This left citizens to take matters into their own hands.

We promoted inclusive participation of people in defending their rights and supported the strengthening of accountable and transparent relations between police and citizens. This included facilitating dialogue meetings between communities and police forces, and training police on respect for human rights and avoiding exacerbating local conflict.